DECENTERING HUMAN EXCEPTIONALISM: BUTLERIAN PERSPECTIVES ON PERFORMATIVITY, PRECARITY, AND ECOLOGY

Abstract

This paper delves into the intricate relationship between Judith Butler's concept of performativity and ecological thinking, challenging prevalent criticisms of Butler's perceived anthropocentrism. Contrary to dismissive assessments, the paper asserts that Butler's extensive body of work holds untapped conceptual resources that not only align with but also have the potential to enrich contemporary ecological theorizing. The analysis centers on three pivotal concepts within Butler's oeuvre: precarity, performativity and coexistence. These concepts provide entry points to showcase the compatibility of Butler's ideas with ecological perspectives. The paper argues that engaging with Butler's work enables us to transcend the perceived divide between gender studies and ecology, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationships shaping our ecological landscape. In particular, the paper explores how Butler's insights contribute to a profound comprehension of ecosystems and the myriad non-human entities within our shared environment. Embracing Butler's conceptual framework allows us to view these entities as active participants and integral components in the dynamic interplay of forces that determine the possibilities and challenges of coexistence. The paper seeks to bridge the perceived gap between gender studies and ecology, advocating for a collaborative discourse that draws from both fields. Through this interdisciplinary approach, the paper aims to cultivate a more inclusive and holistic understanding to address pressing environmental concerns, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human and non-human actors in the complex web of ecological relationships.